Community centres are often thought to be the heart of neighbourhoods, encouraging strong social connections.

This week it was announced one of Canberra’s growing suburbs, Coombs, will receive a new community centre as part of the ACT Government’s continuing investment in the Molonglo region.

The Coombs Community Activity Centre, located on Woodberry Avenue, will include 300m2 of privately owned space for use by the community, including recreational, educational, artistic, social or cultural activities.

The fit out of the facility, expected to be completed by early 2022, includes a meeting room that can hold up to 100 people; providing a flexible space that is both functional and will cater to the needs of the growing community.

The ACT Government has agreed to cover the immediate costs associated with the establishment and upkeep of the privately owned centre, including rent, security,  and general fit out for an initial five-year period. This will help to keep the hiring fees as low as possible for community users.

Molonglo Valley Community Forum member Monique Brouwer said she is “thrilled” with the announcement as it will provide a place for the community to meet and for social connection, which is vital for the wellbeing of residents.

“Valued members of the community alerted us to this vacant activity centre late last year. The Forum has engaged in discussions with the community and local members, and is pleased to see the activation of this space,” Monique said.

“I look forward to seeing local children and families, social, cultural, and community groups utilise the centre. Importantly, the Forum will have a regular booking for meetings and storage, which has been a barrier to establishing a community council in the Molonglo Valley.”

The centre will be one of the main community spaces in Molonglo whilst the proposed community centre on the corner of Fred Daly Avenue is established. The new facility will also complement the new Denman Prospect Community Centre which is nearing completion.

In addition to the two schools which are available for community use, there are a total of five community facilities in the Molonglo Valley that have been built, are under construction, or are being planned.

The ACT Government will be undertaking an expression of interest process to manage the facility on behalf of the ACT Government with community service organisations encouraged to apply.